### Uncertain Future for Mobile Health Units in Tijuana’s Underserved Communities
In Tijuana, Tecate, and Rosarito, the return of mobile health units serving impoverished and remote communities remains uncertain, according to Enrique Campos Gutiérrez, Deputy Chief of the Health Jurisdiction 2 under the State Health Department. Since January 8, 2025, twelve mobile units have ceased operating due to the IMSS Bienestar program’s failure to secure insurance for the vehicles, with financial resources yet to be provided. This has led to protests demanding medical services.
Campos Gutiérrez noted ongoing communication with IMSS Bienestar, but lamented the lack of response and the inability to secure a company to provide the required insurance. The transition of medical services from the State Health Department to IMSS Bienestar has resulted in a nearly 50% budget reduction for the jurisdiction, depriving it of the resources needed to maintain operations. This budget cut impacts approximately 250 individuals daily who previously received between 15 to 20 general consultations through the mobile units.
Since the transition began in September 2024, the federal government committed to the mobile units but has not yet contracted mechanical services, preventing necessary repairs. Campos Gutiérrez described the delays as bureaucratic obstacles that need to be expedited.
The reorganization has also affected medication management, with the health jurisdiction losing control over distribution to the area’s 37 health centers. He advised affected residents to seek care at these existing centers, which remain operational.
Campos Gutiérrez expressed concern over existing deficiencies in service but emphasized ongoing efforts to resolve the issues swiftly. He highlighted the previous autonomy the jurisdiction had in managing resources and responding promptly to medical needs, which the centralized IMSS Bienestar system lacks.
### Additional Coverage: Challenges in Health Service Provision in Baja California
Recent protests in Tijuana highlight significant challenges facing the IMSS Bienestar program’s ability to maintain health services in underserved areas. As administrative and bureaucratic delays persist, public demonstrations have underscored community frustration. Health officials continue to scramble for solutions, advocating for the expedited resolution of insurance and repair contracts critical to relaunching mobile health units.
Meanwhile, state health centers have experienced increased pressure to absorb the patient load typically managed by mobile units. This situation has spotlighted larger systemic issues within the IMSS Bienestar program’s rollout, including logistical hurdles and resource allocation challenges, prompting calls for re-evaluation of the program’s implementation strategy to better meet community needs.